PGI 2018

2018 PGI Literacy Dinner a Success!

On April 26, 2018 approximately 200 supporters of literacy from across New Brunswick gathered at the Delta Fredericton to celebrate and promote literacy in New Brunswick!

The event celebrated New Brunswick author David Adams Richards. One of only three Canadians ever to receive a Governor General’s Literacy Award for both fiction and non-fiction works, Richards is famous for his stories inspired by the experience growing up in Newcastle. A recently-appointed Canadian senator, Richards received the 2018 Champion of Literacy Award. A copy of Mr. Richards remarks can be found here.

The Literacy Coalition of NB also awarded Mr. Frank McKenna with the honorary title of Ambassador for New Brunswick Literacy, during a special tribute at the PGI dinner. This award was presentedin recognition of Mr. McKenna’s generous donation to the NB PGI and in appreciation for his lifelong contribution to improving literacy and the well-being of New Brunswickers.

The President’s Award was given to Mark Rodd of Rodd Hotels and Resorts in recognition of their outstanding contribution to literacy for children and youth through volunteerism.

Marshall Button, emcee and poet laureate for the evening, received the Peter Gzowski Award for his tireless contribution and long time volunteer efforts in support of PGI NB.

A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Adult Learner Achievement Awards. Recipients, Erika Dove, Joanie Paul, Elisabeth Irunga and Colton Kroon received their awards and shared their stories with the attendees. To read their amazing stories, click here.

The Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick has raised more than $1.6 million dollars for literacy since our inaugural PGI event 15 years ago. Funds raised go directly to youth, adult and family literacy programs around the province, including support for our schools, libraries and community groups.

Our sincere thanks to all who attended and supported the dinner and auction and helped to make it a huge success! We are so grateful to everyone who attended the event, and to all of the generous people and organizations who supported us in so many ways. Thank you for joining us in our efforts to advance literacy for all New Brunswickers!